1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 359 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
